In Plus Episode 404, we discuss paying down a mortgage early now that interest rates are higher. We answer a member's questions on how to invest college savings to be used in seven years or less. We revisit selling intermediate-term bond funds and ETFs. We revisit David's decision to buy and sell PFIX. Finally, we look at what monetary velocity is, why it is increasing and does that suggest inflation will stay high for longer. … [Read more...]
378 Plus: A Frustrating Time To Invest and Did BulletShares Underperform?
In Plus Episode 378, we discuss the fear, uncertainty, and frustration we can feel investing in the current environment. We also look at how to estimate the performance of BulletShare ETFs, which are ETFs that hold bonds and have fixed maturities. We consider why a member's BulletShare ETF fell well short of his expectations. … [Read more...]
337: Why in the World Would You Own Bonds?
With interest rates rising does it still make sense to own bonds? Yes. This episode explores the role of bonds including why they are more effective at hedging stock losses than protective put options. Topics covered include: David's business and investment philosophy How bond funds have performed in 2021 Three disparate views on the direction of interest rates from Capital Economics, Ray Dalio, and Hoisington Investment Management Company How to invest in China … [Read more...]
331 Plus: Member Profile, Tail Risk Protection, Rental Real Estate as Bond Substitute, and YYY ETF
In Plus Episode 331, we profile a member in Bosnia who is deciding on a new asset allocation after selling a business. We consider whether investors in their thirties should seek tail risk protection against declining stock markets. We evaluate how rental real estate can be used as a bond substitute. Finally, we analyze the Amplify High Income Fund ETF (YYY) that invests in closed-end funds. We also discuss CEFL and CEFD that follow a similar strategy. … [Read more...]
324 Plus: Currencies, Bond Convexity, and Support Levels
In Plus episode 324, we discuss a new investor's question on how the currency can impact an investment's return. We explore bond duration and convexity and why the duration for bonds increases as interest rates fall. Finally, we consider support and resistance levels for stocks and whether they have any merit. … [Read more...]
308 Plus: August 2020 Investment Conditions and Model Portfolio Changes
In this Plus episode, we review investment conditions as of early August 2020. We discuss the recent changes to the adaptive model portfolios to add core fixed income. Finally, we review recent and anticipated changes to David's portfolio. … [Read more...]
306 Plus: Member Profile, Bond Investing, and Emerging Technology
In this Plus episode, we profile a member who is transitioning his portfolio for retirement. We discuss fixed income options, fixed annuities and other challenges with a low interest rate environment. We also look at the viability of investing in individual emerging technology stocks, particularly companies focused on computer vision. … [Read more...]
302 Plus: Laddered Bonds, Portfolio Profile and Buying Your Employer’s Stock
In Plus episode 302, we review recent trades in David's portfolio and discuss ways to construct a laddered bond portfolio. We analyze a portfolio managed by a financial advisor for a 71-year old woman. Finally, we discuss whether individuals should purchase their employer's stock as part of a promotion even if it leads to a highly concentrated position. … [Read more...]
279 Plus: December 2019 Portfolio Review, A Member Profile and Why Bonds
In Plus episode 279 for the week of December 6, 2019, we review changes to David's portfolio and discuss why there haven't been changes to the model portfolios in the past year. We review a member's portfolio and discuss his 25% allocation to an actively managed separate account. We discuss the criteria the member uses to evaluate the manager. Finally, we review why investors would want to own bonds. … [Read more...]
255: With Interest Rates Falling, Why Do You Own Bonds?
How an asset class such as bonds can play different roles in your portfolio depending on your investment philosophy. In this episode you’ll learn: What are bonds and how can they be used in investment portfolios.What is interest rate anticipation.Why individuals have an advantage over institutions because they don't have to worry about outperforming a benchmark when it comes to bonds.Why U.S. interest rates could rise and fall from current levels.Why China is unlikely to sell all … [Read more...]
